Vol. 466 No. 5
63 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health his views on whether the indicative drug target scheme may give rise to a conflict of interest for general practitioners in view of the financial interest of doctors in such a targeted scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11739/96]
Limerick East): The indicative drug target scheme was introduced as a result of a voluntary agreement entered into by the Irish Medical Organisation and the Irish College of General Practitioners for the purposes of encouraging rational and cost-effective prescribing in the interests of improved patient care. The resources made available from this scheme are allocated for practice developments approved by the relevant health board and are geared towards the improvement of facilities and services for patients. In these circumstances, I do not consider that there is a conflict of interest for general practitioners participating in the scheme.
